The Chippewa Marching Band
In Fall 1923, Music Department Head J. Harold Powers enlisted sixteen players and, with the assistance of Registrar and Dean of Men Charles C. Barnes as honorary Drum Major, formed a new Central Normal Band to lend spirit to Football Games. According to the CMU Chippewa Yearbook that year:
The band helped immensely to add color to the games and to keep the spirit of the spectators, as well as the team, at a maximum. Let us hope that the band will continue to give added zest to the social and athletic endeavors of Central and that the bands of later years will continue to maintain the high standards set by the present organization of splendid musicians.
Drum Major, Drum Line, and Color Guard Summer Camp Packet is now Live!
We are excited to have our Drum Major, Drum Line, and Color Guard Summer Camp back in session for the summer! You can find the packet here to answer any questions or concerns.
For any other inquiries, please contact Dr. Jim Batcheller.
Into our second century
Looking forward to our 103rd season, the Chippewa Marching Band (CMB) has maintained a tradition of excellence and innovation, summarized in our motto, Concordia ad astra ("Together to the stars"). One of the most recognizable public faces of the university, the band is an invaluable collection of musical ambassadors for CMU. On the field each year are students from every college of the university representing over 100 academic programs. Join us for an exciting year in 2025!
Marching Chips Summer Camp
July 13-18, 2025
Join us in Mount Pleasant! Open to all students entering grades 9-12 in Fall 2025.
Our professional educators join with CMU student counselors and instructors, CMU’s Residence Life and Campus Dining staff, and the School of Music to provide an exciting experience in a friendly atmosphere. Our leadership and skills development sessions have proven successful for Drum Majors, Drum Line and Color Guard students from all levels of experience.
2025 Band Day
The CMU School of Music is pleased to invite you and your students to join us for our seventy-first Band Day this fall. More information will be posted when the 2025 football schedule is announced. We hope you and your students can join us for a day of musical pageantry and CMU Chippewa Football!
